Ammishaddai is a figure known solely through his son, Ahiezer, who held the esteemed position of Prince (chief) of the tribe of Dan during the time of the Exodus. Ammishaddai’s lineage connects him to one of the largest and most influential tribes in the structure of the wilderness camp.
🛡️ Father of a Tribal Leader
The Bible first introduces Ammishaddai when Moses is commanded to number and organize the tribes of Israel as they prepared to depart from Mount Sinai. The leader chosen to represent the tribe of Dan was Ahiezer, the son of Ammishaddai:
“Of Dan, Ahiezer the son of Ammishaddai.” (Numbers 1:12, KJV)
As the Prince of Dan, Ahiezer, the son of Ammishaddai, played several crucial roles in the operation of the massive Israelite camp:
- Census and Organization: He assisted Moses and Aaron in numbering the tribe of Dan, which at 62,700 men (Numbers 2:26, KJV) was the second-largest tribe, making its leader highly significant.
- Encampment Leader: The tribe of Dan led the entire fourth division of the camp, which included Asher and Naphtali. This division formed the rearguard when the Israelites marched (Numbers 2:31, KJV), giving Ahiezer a critical position of protection and defense.
- Dedication Offerings: As a representative of his tribe, Ahiezer brought the dedication offerings for the Tabernacle altar on the third day of the dedication ceremony: “On the third day Ahiezer the son of Ammishaddai, prince of the children of Dan, did offer.” (Numbers 7:30, KJV).
🔑 Significance of the Name
The name Ammishaddai, meaning “people of the Almighty,” is particularly fitting for a lineage that produced a prince tasked with leading the rearguard. Ahiezer’s role was one of great responsibility, ensuring the safety of the entire congregation as they moved through the wilderness.
Ammishaddai’s legacy, therefore, is one of trust and divine election. Though his actions are unrecorded, his name validates the authority of his son, confirming that Ahiezer came from a family whose identity was explicitly tied to their acknowledgement of God Almighty (El Shaddai), providing the essential foundation for his leadership role in the nation of Israel.